Yesterday, the France Football Federation revealed that striker Karim Benzema will not be fit enough to feature for the national side in the upcoming World Cup tournament in Qatar.
The unfortunate injury cropped up when Didier Deschamps’s side was already looking short of options in both the attack and midfield departments. The Real Madrid star suffered an injury while practising with his teammates yesterday.
The fans had their fingers crossed as the test results were yet to be revealed. However, it has been made clear that the Ballon d’Or winner will not be able to make it through to the World Cup as he needs time for recovery.
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Although Deschamps ruled out any potential new replacement to enter in place of Benzema, another injury may change the situation for the country.
Breaking: Karim Benzema will MISS the World Cup. Confirmed. He will not be part of France 26 man squad. 🚨🇫🇷 #WorldCup2022 pic.twitter.com/vVLIl82yqB
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 19, 2022
With Christopher Nkunku being ruled out, France is looking short on quality options in attack. The wing attack looks strong, but the forward position needs to be filled.
Antoine Griezmann or Olivier Giroud will be expected to spearhead the attack in the absence of Benzema. Deschamps still has options to choose from when it comes to picking up players from other clubs.
Anthony Martial of Manchester United is a good option for emergency cover. The 26-year-old has been unable to keep himself fit for the majority of the season for the Red Devils.
The injury record may be a sign of concern, but right now, he is training well with the United squad and looks fit to start a game. The 29-year-old suffered heartbreak for France this year when he was ruled out of the Euros as he suffered an injury against Kazakhstan.
However, the striker can relish a new opportunity if it comes through. It may give him a chance to demonstrate his worth for the country and, in turn, secure his place in the club’s starting XI.
Martial is expected to start most of the league games for United once he is fit to play. Erik ten Hag will prefer him in place of Ronaldo, and it was obvious after the Portuguese striker’s ugly interview last week.
It remains to be seen whether France will be able to defend their title as they face an uphill task of retaining the World Cup crown with many key players sidelined with injuries of their own.
